Meet Our Common Rheas

The Common Rhea is a South American species which is flightless. They are a distant relative of the Ostrich and Emu. Despite the lack of flight they have been able to adapt to this by having strong legs that allow them to run around 40mph.

Range

Common Rheas, also known as Greater Rheas, are native to South America, specifically Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, and Uruguay. They are the largest bird species in South America and are known for their impressive speed and agility.

Diet

Common Rheas are herbivores, their diet consists mainly of plants, seeds, fruits, and leaves. They are opportunistic feeders and will consume a variety of vegetation based on availability.

Lifespan

Common Rheas have an average lifespan of 10 to 15 years in the wild. However, in captivity, they can live up to 20 years or more with proper care and habitat.

Conservation Status

Common Rheas are classified as "Least Concern" by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). While their population is stable, habitat loss due to agriculture and hunting pose threats to their survival.

Did You Know?

  • Common Rheas are excellent swimmers and can easily cross rivers and streams in their natural habitat. They are also known for their elaborate courtship displays, involving dancing and vocalizations.
  • These birds aren't known to be very vocal, only really making noise when they are chicks or around breeding season where the male will vocalize to try to attract a female.
  • They will form flocks of up to 20-25 birds but during breeding season these flocks are observed to break up and become sparse, if breeding is successful males will build a nest and each female he has bred with will lay their eggs, the male will then incubate the eggs which could be between 10-60 eggs at a time, they will use some of the eggs as decoys for predators, in the process sacrificing some of his offspring to allow the others to have a higher chance of surviving.

Plan Your Visit to Greenacres Animal Park

Experience the beauty of nature up close and meet our amazing Common Rheas!